This document concerns the operation and evaluation of the National Science Foundation (NSF) Engineering Research Center (ERC) program. Included with a general letter addressing the operation of the program are several appendices which attempt to answer the questions put forth in the letter. These appendices include considerations of: (1)…

Examines U.S. educational research policy since the 1960s in conjunction with author's directorship of the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). Discusses federal education laboratories created in 1965. Reviews the OECD's 1969 evaluation of federal research and development programs. Contends U.S. research policy suffers…

A discussion of the emergence of science parks as an option for university-industry cooperation focuses on the university's role and the need for careful planning of the university's involvement. (Author/MSE)

Describes personal experiences with university research and development. Criticizes university research as ineffective and inwardly focused, resulting in a concept of scientific research that negates the notion of economic development. Complains that the focus of study no longer contributes to an increase in consumable wealth. Urges that…

The National Science Foundation's effort to assess ways to improve the speed and accuracy of data collection from universities by federal agencies is discussed. Although only one phase of the project was completed, it is concluded that the issues surrounding electronic data collection have important implications for university research…

Examines the effects of increased industrial funding on academic research in science. Highlights the funding arrangements at Carnegie-Mellon University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and discusses the impact of university-industry ties. (ML)

The principles underlying research and development centers or parks are reviewed, the history and current status of such undertakings in Europe are described, and the university perspective on participation in them is discussed. (Author/MSE)

A discussion of the university's part in giving planning help to new companies in a research and development park emphasizes the importance of regional planning and examines the German experience. (Author/MSE)

Presents historical accounts of patenting and past experiments in academic patent management. These cases highlight the motivations, expectations, and results for scientists, their institutions, and the public. (ML)

Addresses issues and assesses developments in research and development collaborative efforts between universities and industry. Provides an historical context and explores current industry-university alliances. (ML)

Examines the ethics, economics, manpower needs and future regulation of biotechnology. Discusses the new tests of the basic premise of the universality of knowledge gained from university research as attempts are made to patent and temporarily withhold publication of proprietary discoveries made with taxpayer support. (CW)

Notes the contributions that research universities are making to research and development in the United States, including their impact on science policy and economic growth. Urges that more funds be put into academic research institutions, arguing that current levels are proportionately low. (TW)

Discusses the increasing trend toward the pork-barrel funding of science projects, particularly for grants to academic institutions. Addresses the new strategies being employed by opponents of such funding. Describes some of the possible ramifications of the various strategies and the perceived link between science funding and economic growth. (TW)

Application of a multidimensional measure of university research activity, the Research Activity Index (RAI), is described and compared to the more common use of research and development expenditures as a criterion of activity. The RAI incorporates seven expenditure variables, three graduate-student-related variables, and a research library…

A small service firm approach to assist instructors and departments improve the quality of instruction at the University of Washington is discussed. Attention is directed to basic assumptions underlying the instructional development program at the University's Center for Instructional Development and Research (CIDR). One assumption is that an…